Grow light assembly with secondary light modules angularly movable relative to primary light modules

ABSTRACT

A grow light for stimulating plant growth is presented herein. The grow light includes a plurality of primary light modules with LEDs fixedly mounted to a support assembly and spaced a distance away from a plant canopy, and one or more secondary light modules movably or pivotally mounted to an end of one or more of the primary light modules. A positioning assembly is disposed interconnected light modules for manually or automatically movably disposing the secondary light modules into different angular positions relative to the plant. A height adjustment assembly is also include to movably position the light assembly, such as the plurality of primary light modules or the secondary light modules in a vertical direction. Additional features can be included, such as positioning sensors, environmental sensors, CO2 delivery systems, water cooling systems, ground wire interconnections, and light frequency control.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally directed to a light assembly or growlight structured to facilitate or stimulate the growth of plants, forexample, in the field of horticulture, indoor gardening, hydroponics,aquaponics, indoor vertical grow farms, etc. In certain embodiments, thegrow light includes one or more light modules that can be moved oradjusted, e.g., in a vertical, angular or horizontal direction, eithermanually or automatically, in order to maximize the stimulation of plantgrowth.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Grow lights are often used to facilitate the growth of plants in manyvarious indoor farm environments or indoor growing facilities.Conventionally, these grow lights incorporate or use fluorescent bulbsor high pressure sodium lamps (HPS) that are suspended or otherwisedisposed directly above the plants in a straight downward facingdirection. One problem with such a configuration is that light can onlybe projected from the top-down toward the plant. This limits the amountof light that is exposed to the lower portions of the plant such thatmost of the leaves below the top of the plant canopy are shaded and donot get the light need to stimulate effective growth. Consequently,mostly vertical growth is stimulated or promoted, and the plants oftenlack any horizontal growth often needed in some species or environmentsfor an effective product.

In addition, the lights, bulbs or lamps often used, such as fluorescentor HPS bulbs, generate or produce extremely high or an excessive amountof heat. As such, the lights must always remain a large distance fromthe plant in order to avoid or potentially avoid exposing the plant tothe heat and causing damage. In this manner, fluorescent and HPS lightsmust always remain a distance greater than or about 18 inches from theplant. By spacing the light from the plant such a great distance, theplant is not exposed to an efficient amount of photonic grow energy andwill not produce or grow in the most efficient manner.

Other potential problems in the current industry of grow lights is thelack of consistency, the lack of ability to control the light output, aswell as a lack of automation and repeatability.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a modular, customizable, andcontrollable light assembly that can project low heat, energy-efficientlight to the plants from multiple angles. For example, the proposedlight assembly can move, adjust or be positioned to emit light to theplant from the top as well as one or more sides in order ensure that thesides and lower portions of the plant, in addition to the top, areexposed to photonic grow energy from the lights. This promotes moreefficient plant grown and produces better plants with more flower oroutput.

In addition, the proposed light assembly may use low heat light emittingdiodes (LEDs) that allow the lights to be positioned within three to sixinches of the plant or plant canopy. This delivers higher amount ofphotonic grow energy to the plant while utilizing approximately 50% lessenergy and 70-75% less heat. The LEDs can be controlled such that thelight can be produced in specific key light frequencies among the lightspectrum that is useful to plants, thereby further minimizing energywaste. For instance, plants use a photosynthetic active radiation (PAR)range of the light spectrum, which in terms of light frequency, is inthe range of approximately 350 nanometers to approximately 750nanometers. There are a number of different light frequencies (e.g.,frequencies in the range of approximately 350 nm, 370 nm, 439 nm, 450nm, 469 nm, 483 nm, 642 nm, 660 nm, 667 nm, and 740 nm) that can be usedto drive key aspects of plant growth during the life of the plant. Theproposed light assembly can be used to vary the light power, frequency,wavelength etc. of the LEDs throughout the life cycle of the plant, forexample, based on specific algorithms, desires, data obtained, desiredoutcomes, plant species, etc. As an example, the light power can bevaried from a low level at the beginning of a grow cycle to higherincreased levels as the plant grows. This can be characterized as apower curve that grows with the plant. This feature results insignificant electrical savings when compared to existing lightingtechnology, such as fluorescent, HPS, and HID lighting.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is directed to an innovative indoorgrowing system that provides low heat, low energy light modules, and insome embodiments, automated controls. As provided herein, the grow lightassembly of the various embodiments is structured and configured tofacilitate the growth of one or more plants by emitting light, e.g., byproviding photosynthetic active radiation, upon the plant(s) fromvarious angles or positions. The plants can include virtually any plantthat can be grown indoors, including virtually any vegetable plant,flowering plant, fruiting plant, etc. including but certainly notlimited to cannabis plants.

For instance, the light assembly of at least one embodiment may includea module, multi-component application with multiple light modulesinterconnected to one another, or otherwise interconnected to a supportassembly. The light modules may be positioned or angled in variousmanners to substantially or fully surround a plant with the light orphotosynthetic active radiation. Depending on the environment, desires,constraints, or plants grown, the light assembly can take on variousconfigurations including a linear configuration or a partially or fullywrapped configuration, as examples.

In some embodiments, the angular orientation or vertical positioning ofone or more of the light modules can be adjusted, either manually orautomatically, for example, as the plant grows. In such a manner, thelights can move as the plant grows in order to continuously provide themaximum or optimum amount of light or PAR thereto. As described herein,the movement, positioning or adjustment may be manual in that a user canselectively move the light modules or light assembly when desired, forexample, when he or she notices that the plant is growing. This can bedone via manual adjustment knobs, pulleys, etc., for example, or viaactivating one or more motors or other like mechanical or electricaldevices specifically configured to move the light modules. In otherembodiments, the light modules can be automatically adjusted orpositioned, such as, based upon data obtained or received by one or moresensors. In particular, positioning sensors, such as infraredtransmitters/receivers, may be used to determine the position of theplant or plant canopy relative to the light modules. As the plant growsand gets closer to the light modules as detected by the sensor(s),various automated positioning assemblies and/or height adjustmentassemblies may be automatically activated in order to move or adjust thelight modules accordingly.

Other sensors may be included in some embodiments, such as environmentalsensors that can detect and record data related to the ambienttemperature in the room or environment, humidity, soil moisture,lighting, surface temperature of the plants, etc. This data, as well asthe information obtained by the positioning sensors, and the varyinglight frequency, can be stored and analyzed to optimize the growth ofplants. For instance, as provided herein, in some embodiments, the lightfrequency of the light modules or LEDs thereof can be controlled andvaried during the different stages of plant growth. These frequenciescan change the way in which the plant grows or reacts to the light andcan have an effect on the overall health and product of the plant. Thedata associated with the varying light frequencies, environmental sensordata, and positioning data can be used to optimize or control the plantoutput, as desired, depending on the particular plant type or speciesand desired outcomes. The data can thus be used for repeating the sameconditions, thereby providing a light assembly or system that can beuseful for consistent and repeatable growing. The data or controls canalso be sold to other growers who may also want to repeat or grow thesame product.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent when the drawings as well as thedetailed description are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partial top perspective view of the grow light assemblyconfigured in a linear form and disposed in a spaced relation with aplant, as disclosed in accordance with at least one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a partial top perspective view of the grow light assemblyconfigured in a wrapped or angular form and disposed in a spacedrelation with a plant, as disclosed in accordance with at least oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an elevation schematic representation of the grow lightassembly configured in a wrapped or angular form and disposed in aspaced relation with a plant, as disclosed in accordance with at leastone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an elevation schematic representation of the grow lightassembly configured in a linear form and disposed in a spaced relationwith a plant, as disclosed in accordance with at least one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 5 is an elevation view of another grow light assembly configured ina wrapped or angular form and disposed in a spaced relation with aplant, as disclosed in accordance with at least one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 is an elevation schematic representation of another embodiment ofthe grow light assembly, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 7 is a partial cut-away view of the positioning assembly asdisclosed in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 8 is a partial cut-away view of the positioning assembly asdisclosed in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 is an elevation schematic representation of the grow lightassembly as disclosed in accordance with yet another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic representation illustrating a grounding assemblyas disclosed herein.

FIG. 11 is a schematic representation illustrating various environmentalsensors as disclosed herein.

FIG. 12 is a partial cut away view illustrating a cooling assembly asdisclosed herein.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several viewsof the drawings provided herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As shown in the accompanying drawings, and with particular reference toFIGS. 1 and 2, for example, the present invention is directed to a growlight assembly, generally shown as 10. As provided herein, the growlight assembly 10 of the various embodiments is structured andconfigured to facilitate the growth of one or more plants 1 by emittinglight, e.g., by providing photosynthetic active radiation, upon theplant(s) 1 from one or more angles or positions.

For instance, the grow light assembly 10 of at least one embodiment ofthe present invention comprises one or more light modules 20 that arespaced a distance from the plant(s) 1 or the plant canopy and which areadapted to shine or emit artificial light upon the plant 1 forstimulation of plant growth. In some embodiments, the grow lightassembly 10 employs shape lighting technology that allows the one ormore light modules 20 to be positioned or adjusted, for example, duringthe life cycle of the plant(s) 1, in order to at least partially, and insome cases, fully surround the plant(s) 1 with photosynthetic activeradiation to stimulate growth. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment,each of the one or more light modules 20 of the present invention mayinclude a plurality of light sources, which in many instances, arelow-heat light emitting diodes (LEDs) allowing the light modules to bewithin three (3) to six (6) inches of the plant, thereby delivering ahigh amount of photonic grow energy to the plant while utilizingsignificantly less energy (e.g., 50%) than other light sources.

For instance, still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the grow light assembly10 of at least one embodiment includes a support assembly 40 structuredto support, hold or maintain one or more of the light module(s) 20 in asupported or operative orientation. In this regard, the support assembly40 can include at least one generally rigid or structural base 42 towhich one or more of the light modules 20 are mounted, either directlyor indirectly. The support assembly 40 of some embodiments can bevertically suspended, for example, from a ceiling or other supportstructure at least partially above the plant(s) 1. In this manner, oneor more support cables 44 or wires can be secured to the structural base42 for supporting the base 42 in a position at least partially above theplant(s) 1. It should be noted that virtually any support assembly 40can be used and/or implemented in the various embodiments of the presentinvention in order to support the one or more light modules 20 in aspaced relation from the plant(s) 1 or plant canopy. As will bedescribed herein, the one or more light modules 20 can be spaced fromthe plant(s) 1 or plant canopy in a vertical, horizontal or angularorientation in order to maximize the surface area of the plant(s) 1 thatreceives the artificial light produced by the present invention.

It should also be noted that the grow light 10 of the variousembodiments of the present invention can take the form of variousshapes, sizes and/or configurations depending on, for example, theparticular application, the needs of the plant(s) 1, the spatial orenvironmental constraints or limitations, etc. For example, withreference to FIGS. 1 and 4, the grow light assembly 10 of at least oneembodiment may have a generally “linear” or longitudinal shape orconfiguration in that the one or more light modules 20 may be disposedin an at least partially vertically spaced relation from the plant(s) 1or plant canopy and shine or emit light in a general downward directionupon the plant(s) 1 or plant canopy.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate another embodiment wherein the grow lightassembly 10 is configured in a generally “wrapped” or angularconfiguration such that the light module(s) 20 are disposed in differentorientations relative to the plant(s) 1. In this embodiment one or moreof the light modules 20 (e.g., primary or main light modules 20A) aredisposed in a generally horizontal orientation and vertically spacedfrom the plant(s) 1 or plant canopy, while other light modules 20 (e.g.,secondary light modules 20B) are disposed in an angular orientationrelative to the plant(s) 1 or relative to the primary or main lightmodules 20A. In this manner, the primary light modules 20A will emitlight from one direction, e.g., down onto the top of the plant(s) 1,while the secondary light modules 20B will emit light from an at leastpartially side or lateral position, e.g., onto the sides or lowerportions of the plant(s) 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates yet another embodiment wherein a plurality of lightmodules 20 are angularly disposed relative to the support assembly 40 ina manner to at least partially wrap around or encircle the plant(s) 1.Of course, other configurations, shapes and orientations of the growlight 10, including the support assembly 40 and the one or more lightmodules 20 thereof, are contemplated within the full spirit and scope ofthe various embodiments of the present invention.

Furthermore, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, in at least oneembodiment, the present invention includes “shape lighting” in that theorientation and/or position of one or more of the light modules 20 canbe adjusted or otherwise moved relative to one another or relative tothe plant(s) 1. In this manner, as the plant(s) 1 grows, one or more ofthe light modules 20 and/or the grow light assembly 10 itself can bemoved, adjusted and/or positioned in order to continuously provide themaximum amount of light needed to stimulate the plant growth. Forinstance, in at least one embodiment, the grow light assembly 10includes a multi-component modular and positionable system withinterconnected LED light modules 20 that provide a multitude of ways inwhich to fully surround a plant with photosynthetic active radiation(PAR). In particular, the assembly 10 can be used to form a wide varietyof multi-directional lighting configurations that project plant specificphotosynthetic active radiation energy from a multitude of directionsresulting in a more efficient delivery of light and enhanced plantgrowth.

In this regard, and still referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, at least oneembodiment of the present invention includes a positioning assembly,generally referenced as 50, disposed at the joint between interconnectedlight modules, such as, between a primary light module 20A and aninterconnected secondary light module 20B. Particularly, in oneexemplary embodiment, at least some of the light modules 20, such as theprimary light modules 20A may be fixedly connected to the supportassembly 40. The primary light module(s) 20A may also be constructed ina manner to include an elongated configuration with opposite ends, suchas a first longitudinal end 22 and a second longitudinal end 24. In someembodiments, a light module 20, such as a secondary light module 20B,may be movably connected to one or more of the ends 22, 24 of a primarylight module 20A via a positioning assembly 50. The positioning assembly50 allows the secondary light module 20B to me movably disposed, eithermanually, automatically or both, for example, as the plant grows or inorder to accommodate spatial or other constraints or limitations.

It should be appreciated that many different configurations can beconstructed as desired or depending on the plant, environment, etc. byinterconnecting a plurality of the light modules 20 to one another, suchas in an end-to-end fashion via positioning assemblies 50, as describedherein. In this manner, other configurations can be constructed or builtusing the light modules 20 of the various embodiments herein, forinstance, to interconnect two, three, four or more light modules 20,some or all of which may be selectively movably or positionable relativeto one another via one or more positioning assemblies 50.

For instance, with reference to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6, with at least one light module 20, such as a primary lightmodule 20A, disposed in a generally horizontal orientation and spaced avertical distance from the plant canopy, a plurality of secondary lightmodules 20B can be movably or angularly mounted to the ends 22, 24 ofthe primary light module 20A via positioning assemblies 50. As shown byarrows A1 and A2, the secondary light modules 20B can be selectively(e.g., manually, automatically or both) angularly adjusted relative tothe plant canopy and/or the primary light module 20A. Doing so can beused to maximize the light emitted onto the surface of the plant 1 byproviding light from various angles and directions. FIG. 7 illustratesan exemplary positioning assembly 50 configured for manually adjustmentor selective adjustment of the positioning assembly 50 via manualmanipulation. In this embodiment, the positioning assembly 50 includes ahinge, generally referenced as 52. In particular, a pin 53 may beinserted into and/or through corresponding hinge members 51A, 52Ainterconnected to or part of primary light module 20A and secondarylight module 20B, respectively. An adjustment knob 54 or handle, etc. isincluded to allow for manual tightening or loosening of the hinge 52 inorder to accomplish locking and unlocking of the positioning assembly50. This can be accomplished in such an embodiment by manually twistingor rotating the knob 54 or other handle in a clockwise orcounterclockwise orientation, thereby tightening or loosening the hinge52. Accordingly, in order to adjust, pivot or move the light module 20,such the secondary light module 20B shown in FIG. 7, a user may loosenthe hinge 52 or other positioning assembly 50 by manually twisting orrotating the knob 54 in one direction. Once the hinge 52 is loosened,the light module 20, such as the secondary light module 20B, can bepivoted or angularly adjusted relative to the primary light module 20A.When the desired angle is obtained, the user may twist or rotate theknob 54 in the other direction, thereby tightening the hinge 52 andsecuring the positioning assembly 50, as well as the corresponding lightmodules 20A, 20B, in place.

FIG. 8 illustrates another exemplary positioning assembly 50 which canbe implemented via a motor (not shown) to mechanically or electronicallymaneuver or control the angular position or movement of one or more ofthe light modules 20A, 20B. For example, light module 20B may be movablyinterconnected or mounted to the end of another light module 20A via ahinge 52, similar to the hinge 52 illustrated in FIG. 7, although themovement may be controlled via a motor or other like device in additionto or instead of the manual adjustment knob 54. Specifically, in theexemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the positioning assembly 50may include one or more wires or cables 155. In particular, the wire(s)or cable(s) 155 may engage the moving light module, such as secondarylight module 20B, while being slidably connected to the primary lightmodule 20A or other portion of the light assembly 10.

For instance, secondary light module 20B may include one or more mounts156 which the cable(s) or wire(s) 155 can engage. As an example, themount(s) 156 may include a channel or hole 156A through which thecable(s) or wire(s) 155 are disposed or mounted and which engage orotherwise do not allow the wire(s) or cable(s) 155 to slidably come allthe way out. In this manner, the end(s) of the cable(s) or wire(s) 155may be knotted or otherwise may include an enlarged end, stopper 155A orother like device that will engage the mount(s) 156 and prevent orrestrict the cable(s) or wire(s) 155 from completely sliding through thechannel or mount(s) 156.

Similarly, the primary light module 20A may include similar mounts 157through which the same cable(s) or wire(s) 155 are disposed. However,the cable(s) or wire(s) 155 of at least one embodiment can freely slidethough the mount(s) 157. The other end of the cable(s) or wire(s) 155(not shown in FIG. 8) may be connected to or manipulated by a motor orcontroller, for example, with one or more spools, gears or other likedevices capable of pulling or loosening the cable(s) or wire(s) 155.

Accordingly, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the positioningassembly 50 may be operated by manipulating the length or positioning ofthe wire(s) or cable(s) 155, which will, in turn, manipulate thepositioning or orientation of hinge 52 and correspondingly, the angularposition of light module 20B. For example, pulling the cable(s) orwire(s) 155 in direction A3 will cause the end of the cable(s) orwire(s) 155 to engage mounts 156 and angle the secondary light module20B in a more upwardly orientation. Also, loosening the cable(s) orwire(s) 155 or otherwise moving the cable(s) or wire(s) 155 in directionA4 will cause the secondary light module 20B to be positioned in a moredownwardly orientation.

Other positioning assemblies 50, whether manually operated, mechanicalor automatic, can be implemented in accordance with certain embodimentsof the present invention in order to allow angular adjustment ormovement of one or more light modules 20, as disclosed herein. As such,the positioning assembly 50 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 should be deemedexemplary in nature and not limiting.

Some embodiments of the present invention may also include a heightadjustment assembly, schematically represented in FIG. 9 as 60. Inparticular, the height adjustment assembly 60 can be used to adjust theheight or vertical positioning of the light assembly 10, for instance,relative to the plant 1 or plant canopy. As with the positioningassembly 50, the height adjustment assembly 60 can be manual and/orautomatic. As an example, a manual height adjustment assembly 60 caninclude one or more cables, pulleys, gears, adjustment knobs, etc.cooperatively configured to allow a user to selectively adjust theheight or vertical positioning of the entire light assembly 10.

For example, the height adjustment assembly 60 may be interconnected tothe support assembly 40 and/or one or more of the primary light modules20A. In this manner, vertical movement of the support assembly 40 (or aportion of the support assembly 40, such as base 42) in a verticaldirection, will cause the entire light assembly 10, including theprimary light module(s) 20A and the secondary light module(s) 20B, tomove up and/or down.

It should also be noted that the height adjustment assembly 60 mayinclude one or more motors or electronic components that are used tofacilitate the vertical movement or adjustment of the light assembly 10.In this regard, activation of the motor, either manually via a switch orautomatic via one or more sensors, will cause the height adjustmentassembly 60 to move up and/or down or otherwise in a substantiallyvertical direction relative to the plant 1. Other height adjustmentassemblies, whether manual, automatic, motorized, etc. can beimplemented with the full spirit and scope of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 9, some embodiments of the present invention mayinclude one or more positioning sensors, generally referenced as 70,disposed in a manner to sense or detect the general location of theplant 1/plant canopy, or otherwise for determining a distance betweenthe one or more light modules 20 and the plant 1 or plant canopy.Specifically, as the plant 1 grows, the distance between the plant 1 andthe light assembly 10, or otherwise between the plant 1 and the one ormore light modules 20, will decrease. In order to maintain the lightmodules 20 an optimum or desired distance from the plant 1, the lightmodules 20 may need to be moved or adjusted throughout the life cycle ofthe plant 1. In some embodiments, for example, the positioning sensors70 may be infrared (IR) sensors or IR transmitters/receivers usinginfrared technology to determine the distance between the plant 1 andthe light assembly 10. However, it should be noted and apparent thatother sensors using technology other than IR can be used and implementedwithin certain embodiments of the present invention.

For example, using low heat LED lights, the light modules 20 may bespaced from the plant or plant canopy a distance between three (3)inches and six (6) inches. By being so close, the present invention candeliver higher amounts of photonic grow energy than traditional lightsthat produce higher levels of heat. In at least one embodiment, thesensors 70 can be used to automatically sense the distance between thelight module(s) 20 and the plant during the life cycle of the plant. Acontroller, generally referenced as 80 in FIG. 9, can be used to receivethe data or information obtained by the sensors 70 and control thepositioning or location of one or more of the light modules 20.Specifically, using the information from the one or more positioningsensors 70, the controller 80 of at least one embodiment can be used toautomatically control the positioning assemblies 50 in order toautomatically adjust the positioning or angle of at least some of thelight modules 20 relative to the plant 1. As an example, using theembodiment of the positioning assembly illustrated in FIG. 8, thecontroller 80 may be used to adjust the one or more cable(s) or wire(s)155, thereby adjusting the angular orientation of the secondary lightmodule(s) 20B.

Similarly, the controller 80 of at least one embodiment, may be used toautomatically control the height adjustment assembly 60, for example,based upon the data received or obtain by the one or more positioningsensors 70. In this manner, the controller 80 can automatically adjustthe height of one or more of the primary light modules 20A, and/or thesupport assembly 40 or the light assembly 10 as a whole, based at leastin part upon the information or data obtained by the positioning sensors70.

Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the positioning sensor(s) 70can be used to constantly or periodically determine the distance betweenthe plant 1 or plant canopy and the light assembly 10 throughout thelife cycle of the plant. Based upon one or more algorithms, rules, etc.,the controller 80 can therefore automatically control the distancebetween the plant 1 and the light assembly 10 by moving or adjusting thelight assembly 10 via positioning assemblies 50 (e.g., for angularlyadjusting the secondary light modules 20B of some embodiments), and/orby moving or adjusting the light assembly 10 via the height adjustmentassembly 60 (e.g., for vertically adjusting the support assembly 40 orprimary light module(s) 20A of some embodiments). This can allow thelight assembly 10 to be moved and/or adjusted in an automatic manner,without the need for manual adjustment, based at least in part upon thegrowth or size of the plant(s) 1.

In this regard, the controller 80 may include one or more computer-basedmodules or components, such as a computer processor, memory, storagedevice, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 80 may beinterconnected to the one or more light modules 20, either directly orindirectly, via one or more data connections. The data connections maybe implemented via data cables 12, such as, but certainly not limited toRJ45 cables, that interconnect between the controller 80 and the one ormore light modules 20, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 7, for example. Forinstance, adjacent or different light modules 20 may be interconnectedto one another (e.g., via a data cable or other connection), with one ofthe light modules 20 being directly connected to the controller 80. Insuch an example, the light modules 20 and the controller 80 may beinterconnected in a daisy chain manner, although other combinations andconnections are contemplated. For example, USB cables or internal dataconnections may be implemented. Either way, the data connections can beused to communicate between the various light modules, sensors, andcontroller, as well as the positioning assembly and height adjustmentassembly as described herein.

Furthermore, various motors, pulleys, or other devices can be controlledby the controller 80 in order to implement the features of automaticallyadjusting or controlling the location or orientation of one or morelight modules 20 as provided herein.

In some embodiments, the controller 80 can also be used to control oradjust the light output of the one or more light modules 20 of thevarious embodiments disclosed herein. For instance, plants use aphotosynthetic active radiation (PAR) range of the light spectrum, whichin terms of light frequency is in the range of approximately 350nanometers to approximately 750 nanometers. The controller 80 of atleast one embodiment can be used to control or adjust the light outputor light frequency of the light modules 20 in order to adjust thecolor/frequency of the light waves and/or to control when the lights orLED are ‘on’ or ‘off’. In some embodiments, the lights can beselectively or otherwise entered into and/or out of an ‘inspection mode’such that the light modules 20 of at least one embodiment can outputlight in a certain optimum light spectrum allowing for the user toinspect the plants without the need for an additional or separate light.

For instance, the lights in many grow rooms are turned ‘on’ duringcertain parts of the day and ‘off’ at other times of the day in order tosimulate seasons or otherwise to optimize or control different growthcycles of the life of the plant. With regard to some plants, as anexample, such as cannabis, there are two key growth stages, a vegetativestage and flowing stage. To maintain the plant in the vegetative cycle,the lights may be kept ‘on’ eighteen (18) hours a day and turned ‘off’six (6) hours a day. When the grower wants to flip the plant into theflowing stage or flower producing stage, light times may be changed totwelve (12) hours ‘on’ and twelve (12) hours ‘off’ in a 24-hour period.The change in light times activates the plant into what it perceives asa season change, thereby moving the plant into the flowing stage.

However, if a grower wants to inspect plants during the light ‘off’cycle, the grower can enter the room with a green light. The reason forthis, is because many plants do not see or react to wavelengths thatproduce green light (approximately around 550 nanometers), andtherefore, exposing the plant to green light will have little to noimpact on the plant. This can be important to a grower who wishes toinspect the plant during a light ‘off’ cycle while, at the same time,making sure not to expose the plant to regular light that may triggerthe plant to change stages (e.g., back into a vegetative state). Someplants may have different inspection ranges.

During a light ‘on’ cycle, LED grow lights can have key red and bluewavelengths of light for growth, which can in some cases, cause the roomto appear pinkish in color. This creates a challenge for growers whowant to inspect the plant during a light ‘on’ cycle, in that the pinkishcolor can inhibit the grower's visual acuity for plant leaf and healthinspection.

Accordingly, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, one ormore of the light modules 20 can include both green and white LEDs, forinspection purposes. For instance, during a light ‘off’ cycle, the lightmodule(s) 20 can enter an inspection mode (e.g., via activation by agrower or user), which will cause the light module(s) 20 to illuminatein the green spectrum. This allows night-time plant inspection withoutthe need for a separate green inspection light.

Additionally, during a light ‘on’ cycle, the light module(s) 20 canenter an inspection mode (e.g., via activation by a grower or user)which will cause one or more of the light modules 20 to switch from apinkish illumination color or spectrum to a green and/or whiteillumination spectrum, thereby allowing for better day time plantinspection.

In this manner, the controller 80 of at least one embodiment of thepresent invention can be configured to control the spectrum orwavelength of light emitted by the one or more light modules 20. Thiscan be done automatically (for example, based upon one or morealgorithms, timing schedules, etc.) or manually (for example, based upona switch, button or value manually controlled). Particularly, in oneembodiment, the controller can be used to enter the light module(s) 20into an ‘inspection mode’ which will change the spectrum of lightemitted based upon the current light cycle (e.g., light ‘on’ cycle orlight ‘off’ cycle).

Furthermore, the controller 80 of at least one embodiment can be used tocontrol, change of vary the light frequencies and/or wavelengths of theLEDs throughout the life cycle of the plant and/or during certain stagesof plant growth. In particular, there are a number of different lightfrequencies that can be used to drive key aspects of plant growth duringthe life of the plant. For example, these different frequencies can bein the range of approximately 350 nm (nanometers), 370 nm, 439 nm, 450nm, 469 nm, 483 nm, 642 nm, 660 nm, 667 nm, and 740 nm. The controller80 can be used to vary the light power, frequency, wavelength etc. ofthe LEDs throughout the life cycle of the plant, for example, based onspecific algorithms, desired, data obtained, desired outcomes, plantspecies, etc. As an example, the light power can be varied from a lowlevel at the beginning of a grow cycle to higher increased levels as theplant grows. This can be characterized as a power curve that grows withthe plant. This feature results in significant electrical savings whencompared to existing lighting technology, such as fluorescent, HPS, andHID lighting.

With reference now to the schematic shown in FIG. 10, yet anotherembodiment of the present invention includes a grounding assembly 90comprising a plurality of connections or wires that collectively createa direct or indirect link to the earth. For example, the groundingassembly 90 is configured to connect the indoor plants 1 or plant pots 2to an outside Earth ground or earthing conductor. Doing so can create anaccelerate growth, for example, in the amount of 10% or 20% greater thanif the indoor plants 1 or pots 2 are not connected to an outside Earthground. Accordingly, as shown at 92, at least one wire (anearth-grounded wire) is connected to between at least one light assembly10 (located indoors) and grounded to the Earth, for example, into dirtor soil located outdoors. A secondary ground wire 94 spans between or isotherwise connected between the light assembly 10 of the presentinvention and the potted soil within which the plant 1 is disposed.

As shown in FIG. 10, additional light assemblies 10 can be connected toone another via interconnecting wires 93, such that a plurality of lightassemblies 10 and plants 1 can be interconnected to the earth-groundedwire 92 either directly or indirectly. Each of the wires 92, 93, 94 canbe, but are not necessarily, constructed of or substantially constructedof copper.

FIG. 11 schematically represents another embodiment which includesenvironmental sensors 170. Specifically, controlling and/or monitoringkey environmental conditions during indoor growing is often an importantaspect in the process for a successful and healthy plant. Accordingly,in some embodiments of the present invention, one or more environmentalsensors 170 can be used to monitor and/or control certain environmentalconditions. The environmental sensor(s) 170 of some embodiments caninclude, for example, one or more temperature sensors, humidity sensors,CO2 sensors, soil water or moisture sensors, etc. Accordingly, theseenvironmental sensors, depending on the type of sensor used, can beconnected to the light assembly 10 and exposed to the ambient air (e.g.,to determine or measure temperature, humidity, CO2, etc.) or connectedto the light assembly 10 and exposed to the plant or plant soil (e.g.,to determine moisture, etc.) The one or more environmental sensors 170can be connected in a plug-and-play manner to the light assembly 10, forexample, via a data cable or data connection (e.g., USB, RJ45, etc.

In some embodiments, the controller 80 may be used to receive and/orstore the data obtained by the one or more environmental sensors 170.This information can be interpreted by the controller 80 and/or obtainby a grower or other use via aired or wireless connection to thecontroller 80 or light assembly 10. Using the data or informationobtained by the environmental sensor(s) 170, the controller or growercan then adjust environmental conditions in an effort to create anoptimum growing environment for the particular plant(s) involved.

With reference now to FIG. 12, at least one embodiment further includesa cooling assembly, generally shown as 100. The cooling assembly 100includes at least one tube 102 disposed at least partially through atleast one of the light modules 20, such as, the primate light modules20A or secondary light modules 20B, and which are adapted to carry acooling liquid or fluid (e.g., water) there through. As an example, andas shown in FIG. 12, the tube(s) 102 may enter through one or more ofthe longitudinal ends 22, 24 of the light modules 20 though acorresponding channel positioned longitudinally through the light module20. The flow of water or other liquid through the tubes 102 will serveto assist in liquid cooling of the light assembly 10.

Additional embodiments of the present invention may include a CO2 orother gas distribution assembly. Specifically, typical CO2 levels in anormal or unregulated room may be between about 300 to 400 ppm. Plantswith increased CO2 levels (e.g., in the range of approximately 1500 ppm)can grow at an accelerated rate. CO2 is heavier than air, and thus, ittends to fall to the floor. Because of this, many growers will attemptto circulate the air and CO2 in a grow room via large fans. This canincrease electrical consumption and in some cases, the unnatural flow ofair can disrupt the plant grow cycle.

Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention include a CO2deliver system integrated within one or more of the light modules 20such that the CO2 is provided at the plant canopy level allowing the CO2to fall over the plant, where it is needed most. With reference to FIG.8, in some embodiments, the joints between adjacent or interconnectlight modules 20 may include integrated CO2 delivery passages or tubesgenerally referenced as 120. The tubes 120 pass longitudinally throughthe light modules 20 (e.g., through longitudinal channels) and areexposed at the joints. CO2 can be pumped through these tubes 120 (via atank or other CO2 source, not shown). Holes in the tubes 120, forexample, at or near the joints will allow the CO2 to escape the tubes120 and fall over the plant canopy.

Other CO2 delivery systems and/or assemblies may be contemplated andintegrated within the one or more light modules 20 of the presentinvention. For example, the CO2 delivery tube(s) 120 may be locatedalong the outside of the light assembly 20, for example, longitudinallyalong the edge (rather than substantially within a longitudinalchannel).

Furthermore, some embodiments of the present invention may include a webor application based control center such that a grower or user cancontrol the light assembly 10 and/or access data or information obtainedby the light assembly 10. For instance, a user may access a web page,desktop application or mobile application to view data or informationobtained by one or more of the sensors, to control or program the lightoutput of the LEDs, to turn the light assembly and/or portions of thelight assembly on or off, etc. In this manner, the light assembly 10 maybe connected to a network, such as the Internet, World Wide Web, WideArea Network, Local Area Network, private network, etc. in order tocommunicate with a control center application or user application, forexample. Accordingly, the assembly may include a web server or localserver to store certain data and/or facilitate communications betweenthe controller 80 and the user or user application. In otherembodiments, however, the controller 80 may communicate directly withthe user application.

In particular, via the user application or control center application,the user can control and monitor the growing process, includingscheduling events, such as controlling the light output or thepositioning of the light modules. A simulation system or assembly mayalso be included that has the ability to simulate a grow process, basedon selected or installed equipment, providing calculated electricalcosts for the entire grow cycle or a portion thereof. This provides theuser with the ability to make simulated tweaks or changes to minimizeelectrical or other costs. Once satisfied, the user can activate thesystem, which will then begin executing the commands automating theentire grow process. Once the user has optimized the controls,schedules, positions, etc. of the system, it can be repeated again andagain ensuring consistency and repeatability.

Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operatingrequirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in theart, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen forpurposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications whichdo not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of thisinvention. This written description provides an illustrative explanationand/or account of the present invention. It may be possible to deliverequivalent benefits using variations of the specific embodiments,without departing from the inventive concept. This description and thesedrawings, therefore, are to be regarded as illustrative and notrestrictive.

Now that the invention has been described,

What is claimed is:
 1. A grow light assembly, comprising: a supportassembly, a plurality of primary light modules mounted to said supportassembly, each of said plurality of primary light modules being spaced adistance away from a plant canopy and wherein each of said plurality ofprimary light modules comprise a plurality of light emitting diodesstructured to emit light upon the plant canopy, at least one secondarylight module movably mounted to an end of at least one of said pluralityof primary light modules, said at least one secondary light module beingspaced a distance away from the plant canopy and comprising a pluralityof light emitting diodes structured to emit light upon the plant canopy,a controller, said controller being interconnected to each of saidplurality of primary light modules and said at least one secondary lightmodule, said controller being adapted to control a light output for eachof said plurality of primary light modules and said at least onesecondary light module, a plurality of sensors connected to saidcontroller, said plurality of sensors comprising at least onepositioning sensor and a plurality of environmental sensors, said atleast one positioning sensor being structured to determine a distancebetween at least a portion of said grow light assembly and at least aportion of the plant canopy, wherein said controller is structured toautomatically position said plurality of primary light modules indifferent vertical positions via a height adjustment assembly based atleast upon data collected by said at least one positioning sensor,wherein said controller is further structured to automatically positionsaid at least one secondary light module into different angularpositions via a positioning assembly based upon data received by said atleast one positioning sensor, and said plurality of environmentalsensors being exposed to ambient air surrounding said grow lightassembly to collect environmental data, wherein said plurality ofenvironmental sensors comprises a humidity sensor, a temperature sensorand a carbon dioxide sensor.
 2. The grow light assembly as recited inclaim 1 wherein each of said plurality of primary light modules arefixedly mounted to said support assembly.
 3. The grow light assembly asrecited in claim 2 wherein each of said plurality of primary lightmodules comprise an elongated configuration with a first longitudinalend and a second longitudinal end, said first longitudinal end beingopposite said second longitudinal end.
 4. The grow light assembly asrecited in claim 3 wherein said at least one secondary light modulecomprises a plurality of secondary light modules, wherein at least oneof said plurality of secondary light modules is movably mounted to saidfirst longitudinal end of at least one of said plurality of primarylight modules and a different one of said plurality of secondary lightmodules is movably mounted to said second longitudinal end of said atleast one of said plurality of primary light modules.
 5. The grow lightassembly as recited in claim 4 comprising a plurality of positioningassemblies, each of said plurality of positioning assemblies structuredto angularly adjust at least one of said plurality of secondary lightmodules.
 6. The grow light assembly as recited in claim 5 wherein eachof said plurality of secondary light modules are movably connected to acorresponding one of said plurality of primary light modules via ahinge.
 7. The grow light assembly as recited in claim 6 wherein saidpositioning assembly comprises an adjustment knob, said adjustment knobbeing adapted to allow manual locking and unlocking of said hinge viamanual rotation of said adjustment knob.
 8. The grow light assembly asrecited in claim 1 further comprising a cooling assembly, said coolingassembly comprising a at least one tube disposed at least partiallythrough at least some of said plurality of primary light modules,wherein said at least one tube is adapted to carry cooling liquid therethrough.
 9. The grow light assembly as recited in claim 1 furthercomprising a grounding assembly, said grounding assembly comprising atleast one earth-grounded wire connected to said grow light assembly, anda secondary ground wire connected between said grow light assembly andpotted soil disposed there under.
 10. A grow light for stimulating plantgrowth, said grow light comprising: a support assembly, a plurality ofprimary light modules fixedly mounted to said support assembly, whereineach of said plurality of primary light modules comprise a plurality oflight emitting diodes, each of said plurality of primary light modulescomprising an elongated configuration with a first longitudinal end anda second longitudinal end, said first longitudinal end being oppositesaid second longitudinal end, said first longitudinal end and saidsecond longitudinal end of each of said plurality of primary lightmodules being structured to receive a movably mounted secondary lightmodule, said secondary light module comprising a plurality of lightemitting diodes, a positioning assembly disposed at least partiallybetween said interconnected ones of said plurality of primary lightmodules and said secondary light modules for movably disposing saidsecondary light modules into different angular positions, saidpositioning assembly comprising a primary mount connected to at leastone of said plurality of primary light modules and a secondary mountconnected to at least one of said secondary light modules, saidpositioning assembly further comprising at least one positioning cableslidingly disposed through said primary mount and into at least onecorresponding channel disposed on said secondary mount, said at leastone positioning cables comprising a stopper at an end thereof torestrict movement of said at least one positioning cables through saidat least one corresponding channel of said secondary mount, whereinsliding said at least one positioning cable in one direction causes saidat least one secondary light module to be movably positioned in oneangular position relative to said at least one primary light module, andsliding said at least one positioning cable in a different directioncauses said at least one secondary light module to be movable positionedin a different angular position relative to said at least one primarylight module, and a height adjustment assembly structured to movablyposition said plurality of primary light modules and said secondarylight modules in a vertical direction.
 11. The grow light as recited inclaim 10 wherein said positioning assembly comprises an adjustment knob,said adjustment knob being adapted to allow manual locking and unlockingof said positioning assembly via manual rotation of said adjustmentknob.
 12. The grow light as recited in claim 10 further comprising atleast one positioning sensor for determining a distance between saidgrow light and a plant canopy, said at least one positioning sensorstructured to communicate positioning data to said controller, saidpositioning data being representative of the distance between said growlight and the plant canopy.
 13. The grow light as recited in claim 12wherein said controller is structured to automatically control thedistance between said plurality of primary light modules and saidsecondary light modules via automatic adjustment of said positioningassembly and said height adjustment assembly.
 14. The grow light asrecited in claim 10 wherein said at least one positioning cablecomprises at least two positioning cables, and wherein at least onecorresponding channel comprises at least two corresponding channels,wherein each of said at least two positioning cables is disposed into adifferent one of said at least two corresponding channels.
 15. A growlight assembly, comprising: a support assembly, a plurality of primarylight modules fixedly mounted to said support assembly, each of saidplurality of primary light modules being spaced a distance away from aplant canopy and wherein each of said plurality of primary light modulescomprise a plurality of light emitting diodes structured to emit lightupon the plant canopy, wherein each of said plurality of primary lightmodules comprise an elongated configuration with a first longitudinalend and a second longitudinal end, said first longitudinal end beingopposite said second longitudinal end, a plurality of secondary lightmodules, wherein at least one of said plurality of secondary lightmodules is movably mounted to said first longitudinal end of at leastone of said plurality of primary light modules and a different one ofsaid plurality of secondary light modules is movably mounted to saidsecond longitudinal end of said at least one of said plurality ofprimary light modules, said plurality of secondary light modules beingspaced a distance away from the plant canopy and comprising a pluralityof light emitting diodes structured to emit light upon the plant canopy,a controller, said controller being interconnected to each of saidplurality of primary light modules and said plurality of secondary lightmodules, said controller being adapted to control a light output foreach of said plurality of primary light modules and said plurality ofsecondary light modules, a plurality of positioning assemblies, whereineach of said plurality of positioning assemblies is structured toangularly adjust at least one of said plurality of secondary light intodifferent angular positions, a height adjustment assembly structured tomovably position said plurality of primary light modules in a verticaldirection, a plurality of positioning sensors structured toautomatically determine a distance between at least a portion of saidgrow light assembly and at least a portion of the plant canopy, whereinsaid controller is structured to automatically position said pluralityof primary light modules via said height adjustment assembly based upondata received by at least one of said plurality of positioning sensors,and wherein said controller is further structured to automaticallyposition at least one of said plurality of secondary light modules viasaid positioning assembly based upon data received by at least one ofsaid positioning sensors.